By Justus Adetomiwa
The Ekiti State Police Command has commenced enforcement of the directive by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, against the use of vehicles without registered number plates or with obscure plates on public roads, arraigning motorists for violating the directive.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, the police said the enforcement exercise began on June 22, as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s strategic efforts to strengthen internal security, enhance crime prevention, improve vehicle identification and ensure compliance with existing traffic laws.
According to the statement, the exercise is aimed at preventing criminal elements from exploiting unregistered or concealed vehicles to commit crimes and evade law enforcement.
The command disclosed that 17 vehicles were intercepted for traffic-related offences involving the absence or concealment of registered number plates. Following screening and investigation, they were arraigned before courts of competent jurisdiction for prosecution in accordance with the law.
The statement read, “Police operatives intercepted a total of 17 vehicles found operating without registration number plates or with covered number plates in contravention of the law.
“After due screening, those found wanting were further investigated and charged before courts of competent jurisdiction for prosecution in line with the relevant provisions of the law.”
The Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, said the enforcement exercise is not intended to inconvenience law-abiding citizens but to reinforce public safety and strengthen the state’s security architecture.
He noted that properly registered and clearly displayed number plates are essential for intelligence gathering, crime investigation and the prompt identification and tracing of vehicles used in criminal activities.
Falade urged all vehicle owners and motorists to ensure their vehicles are duly registered and fitted with valid, clearly visible registered number plates at all times.
He also advised members of the public to comply with traffic regulations and cooperate with police officers in the lawful discharge of their duties.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property through intelligence-led, proactive, and professional policing.
It added that the enforcement exercise would be sustained across the state as part of ongoing efforts to combat crime, strengthen public confidence in policing and support the IGP’s vision of a safer and more secure Nigeria.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant, obey the law, and report suspicious activities or security concerns to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency line: 08062335577.